Create a theme:  If you’re throwing a holiday party you may think that “holiday” is your theme, but focusing on a slightly more specific segment will help create a more cohesive atmosphere.   Certain colors, styles, periods of time, images or stories can all be used as inspiration for your decorations, activities, food, and any other details you incorporate.  It also gives your guests an idea of what to expect.  

Time:  Make your event for a time or day that would be convenient for most people.  There’s no party without the people!  Also, be aware about other events going on that you may be competing with.  Consider planning on a day when your event will get the most attention.

Invite:  Make sure people know about your party! Make it as easy as possible for people to figure out when and where it will be taking place.  Posters, flyers, and a good social media presence are all important.  Let them know what it’s all about and use an eye catching design and images.  This is your chance to convince people your event is the place they want to be.  Don’t be afraid to get creative too.  Pass out customized swag with your name and event info on it as a pre-party favor.

Get organized:   Keep spreadsheets and lists that you can refer to and update while planning.  Include to-do tasks, a supply list, guest info if it’s the type of event where you have it ahead of time (this includes contact info, any dietary restrictions, RSVPs, etc.).  Keep in mind that the more you have planned out and done ahead of time, the better things will flow.

Trends:  Take into account what’s popular and what people are drawn to right now.  Providing an experience with unique presentation is sure to leave customers buzzing with excitement.  Think about unique or untraditional themes.  Also trending are small plates, tastings, food carts, culturally diverse menus, and personalization.  Try offering a few food and drink pairings too.

Decorate:  Decorations don’t have to be complicated to be memorable.  You don’t want guests to get overwhelmed with the amount of stuff to take in, but it’s still nice to impress them.  Come up with an interesting focal point or two and let the rest speak for itself.

Music:  Music is a detail that helps to tie everything together.  It fills in silence and adds movement and atmosphere to the room.  While it can be a focus of the evening, it doesn’t have to be.  Just make sure your music choice is fitting for the occasion and the audience, and maybe even relates to your theme.

Good lighting:  Lighting is important in creating a good atmosphere.  Too dark and people may miss out on details, too bright and it kills the mood.  It can also be used as a focal point too.  Unique lamps or lighting designs can be an interesting feature and part of the décor too.

Be prepared:  There’s nothing worse than running out of something or not having the right tools on hand when your guests need it most.  Stock up on all of your supplies in advance so there are no last minute scrambles the day of.  Don’t forget to assess your space and seating arrangements as well.  Will you have a place for everyone to be comfortable?

Special beverage:  Create a festive concoction to get your guests in the spirit.  Think about your theme and come up with a fitting beverage that people can look forward to trying.  Use flavored syrups to make is easy, yet still delicious.

Think about the children:  If children will be allowed at your event, consider focusing a couple of details around them.  A small party favor, a fun beverage of their own, or an activity to keep them entertained can go a long way.  Even if the event isn’t focused around kids, it’s a great idea to keep everyone happy.

Relaxed atmosphere:  No matter how busy you may be running around making sure everything is going just right, remember that your guests see that.  You set the tone, so make sure guests feel comfortable and welcome.  And the more you are able to get ready ahead of time, the more relaxed you will be yourself.

Share:  Especially if it was a fun time, people love to look back and reflect on things they’ve done.  Post pictures and send out an email to thank everyone for making the event a success.  A perfect excuse to keep the buzz going.

Happy party planning!

The post Party Planning Pointers appeared first on Houston's Blog.